Two UTME Candidates Escape Kidnappers in Benue as Police Launch Rescue Operation -

The Benue State Police Command has confirmed that two Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) candidates, who were among passengers abducted in a commercial bus, have successfully escaped from their kidnappers.

The command stated that efforts are currently underway to rescue the remaining abducted candidates, while tactical teams intensify operations to track down the perpetrators responsible for the attack.

According to reports, about 14 UTME candidates were abducted while travelling to Otukpo in Benue State for their examination. The victims were passengers in a Toyota Hiace bus belonging to Benue Links Limited, with registration number BGT 234 S4.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, Udeme Edet, the command confirmed that one suspect has already been arrested in connection with the incident.

Preliminary findings also revealed that the driver violated company policy by embarking on an unauthorised late-night journey.

He was further accused of picking up passengers randomly along the route without issuing a formal manifest, contrary to standard operating procedures.

The statement added that the Nigeria Police Force has deployed tactical units, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, in collaboration with other security agencies to ensure the safe rescue of the remaining victims and the arrest of the suspects involved.

Meanwhile, security has been tightened across relevant routes as investigations continue into the incident, with authorities assuring that sustained operations are ongoing to secure the release of all abducted UTME candidates.